Veterinary surgeons' opinions on dog welfare issues

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Welfare Science
• Companion Animal Health

Background:

• Dog welfare is a significant concern within veterinary practice.
• Understanding veterinary practitioners' perceptions is crucial for addressing welfare issues effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ascertain the perceived significance of various dog welfare issues by veterinary practitioners.
• To gauge the extent to which practitioners believe action should be taken on these issues.

Main Methods:

• An online questionnaire was distributed to veterinary practitioners.
• Respondents reported the frequency of awareness and importance of 12 welfare issues.
• Agreement levels regarding increased professional action on each issue were assessed.

Main Results:

• Obesity, chronic pain/poor mobility, and breed-related conditions were most frequently noted.
• Lack of treatment for suffering, abuse/cruelty, and malnutrition were deemed most important.
• Breed-related conditions, obesity, and behavioral problems received the highest agreement for increased action.

Conclusions:

• The veterinary profession perceives obesity, breed-related conditions, and behavioral problems as significant welfare concerns.
• There is a consensus among practitioners that more action is needed on these identified issues.
• This pilot study provides a foundation for future research on companion dog welfare and the veterinary profession's role.